Fentanyl is a highly potent synthetic opioid that has become a major contributor to the opioid crisis and overdose deaths. Here are key facts about fentanyl addiction:

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is 50-100 times more potent than morphine12. It exists in two forms:

• Pharmaceutical fentanyl: Prescribed by doctors to treat severe pain, especially after surgery or for cancer patients15.
• Illicitly manufactured fentanyl: Produced and distributed illegally, often mixed with other drugs5.

Effects and Risks

Fentanyl produces effects similar to other opioids, including:

• Extreme happiness
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Constipation
• Sedation
• Respiratory depression1

The high potency of fentanyl greatly increases the risk of overdose, especially if users are unaware of its presence in other drugs1. Even a small amount can be lethal.

Addiction Potential

Fentanyl is highly addictive due to its potency14. Key points about fentanyl addiction:

• Physical dependence can develop even when taking prescribed fentanyl as directed4.
• Tolerance builds quickly, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects1.
• Withdrawal symptoms can begin within a few hours of the last dose14.

Withdrawal Symptoms

People addicted to fentanyl may experience severe withdrawal symptoms when stopping use, including:

• Muscle and bone pain
• Sleep problems
• Diarrhea and vomiting
• Cold flashes with goose bumps
• Uncontrollable leg movements
• Severe cravings14

Treatment

Fentanyl addiction can be treated with a combination of medications and behavioral therapies:

• Medications: Methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone can help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms1.
• Behavioral therapies: Cognitive-behavioral therapy, contingency management, and motivational interviewing can help modify attitudes and behaviors related to drug use1.

Overdose Response

Naloxone can reverse fentanyl overdose but may require multiple doses due to fentanyl's potency12. If you suspect a fentanyl overdose:

1. Call 911 immediately
2. Administer naloxone if available
3. Try to keep the person awake and breathing
4. Lay the person on their side to prevent choking
5. Stay with them until emergency workers arrive2

Fentanyl's high potency and increasing presence in the illicit drug supply have made it a major driver of overdose deaths. Education, prevention, and access to treatment and harm reduction services are crucial in addressing this crisis.